The Wooden Field Gates of Wales

Abstract

The widespread use of wooden field gates dates from the late eighteenth century and was a consequence of the rapid enclosure of land. The upland nature of the terrain and the damp climate meant that pastoralism dominated over tillage, therefore it was necessary to keep stock. Enclosure Acts passed between 1793 and 1815 added over 200,000 acres of Welsh common land, including wet lowlands and high moors to existing holdings. Over a million acres were enclosed between 1795 and 1895. Prior to the introduction of gates, moving stock from the farmyard into fields, between fields and along tracks and lanes required methods of opening and closing gaps in stone walls, hedges or wooden fences. When not in use, gaps had to be rebuilt or barriers erected that were sufficiently durable to prevent animals breaking through and straying, damaging crops and breeding with neighbouring flocks or herds.